Title
Pharmacokinetics and safety of acyclovir in tragopans (Tragopan species)
Author(s)
Rush, E.M.; Hunter, R.P.; Papich, M.; Raphael, B.L.; Calle, P.P.; Clippinger, T.L.; Cook, R.A.
Published
2005
Publisher
Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery
Abstract
In response to multiple peracute deaths caused by herpesvirus in several pheasant species, a study was designed to determine the absorption, distribution, and linearity of acyclovir in hybrid tragopans (Tragopan caboti X Tragopan temminckii). Acyclovir was administered to 5 healthy adult tragopans, 3 males and 2 females, in a single dose of 40, 80, or 120 mg/kg PO. Blood samples were collected at 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours after administration, and concentrations of acyclovir were measured by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a C-8 column and ultraviolet (UV) detection. Although plasma concentrations were not linear, results from this study suggest that a dosage of 120 mg/kg PO q12h in tragopans may achieve effective plasma concentrations (1.0 µg/ml) for potential treatment and prevention of herpesviral infections. However, further studies are needed to determine if this dosage is safe for repeated administration. © 2005 by the Association of Avian Veterinarians.
Keywords
Aves; Herpesviridae; Phasianidae; Tragopan; Tragopan caboti; Tragopan temminckii; AVIAN HERPESVIRUSES; QUAKER PARAKEETS; ANTIVIRAL AGENTS; VIRUS; FAMCICLOVIR
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PUB12285